I’m looking to get my first synth next month to go for a live set up with Ableton.
I’m loving the model:samples audio over USB functionality and I’m wondering what synths have this feature too so that I can jam with Ableton
Digitone?
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You’ll probably eventually want an audio interface, as not a lot of synths support audio over USB (unless you really lean into the Elektron part of the world!).
All of the modern Elektrons support audio over USB, but they tend to be a bit expensive for most beginners.
If you are looking for a pretty straightforward synth to learn on, I think a Roland Boutique synth would be a good option. They have pretty classic sounds, are affordable, and support audio over USB.
If you are concerned about finding a true polyphonic analog synth, prices go up quite a bit, so I’d recommend a Korg Minilogue (no audio over USB) with a Focusrite Scarlett interface. You can go cheaper still if you are ok with a monophonic synth.
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I’d say Digitone. It’s very flexible, unique and inspiring. Plus you can put the main outs of the M:S into it and use the master distortion on everything. Also, with Overbridge, you can record everything through one USB cable (M:S included as a separate stereo track).
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Digitone!
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Another idea. Just use Ableton Live for your synths. The Suite version has many excellent options including Analog, Tension, Operator, and my personal new favourite Poli (it’s free a Juno rip off that is a Max for Live device - download the Creative Extensions Pack for that one). You can even set up some knobs on the M:S to control parameters in the synths and play them on the Chromatic trig keys. It’s probably your cheapest option too.
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I’m leaning towards the Minilogue tbh looks too good to pass up on
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I’m doing that at the moment but it would be nice to have a synth and stop using VSTs
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Makes sense. Having something with keys is a massive advantage, even for playing the VSTis 
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Very cool, it’s super popular for a reason!
Just remember that you need an interface with it (no audio over USB), but the Focusright Scarletts are both good and cheap. Just get one with as many combo+line inputs as you think you’ll need. Minilogue XD is stereo, original Minilogue is mono, so factor that into the number of inputs!
Highly recommend the Minilogue as a first synth.
Sounds fantastic, incredibly well featured, and laid out in a way that makes it easy to learn synthesis in general.
Digitone is amazing, but I wouldn’t start there as it’s fairly complicated and unlike any other synth, so not a great starting point.
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I was in a similar situation some months ago… So, what would I say? 
Forget the computer & get a cheap Mackie & a Mono Station 
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The XD is great.
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Things have taken a u-turn and I’m tempted to switch out to a Fender Telecaster with a Focusrite Scarlette. Using Ableton for synths and the model:samples for drums and FX
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